Category: <span>Moving</span>

Moving During A Pandemic

Are you moving or planning on moving during a pandemic? Most of us have been impacted in some form by the novel coronavirus. But those of us in the midst of moving are dealing with a whole other animal. Other than the obvious (social distancing, wearing a mask, and washing your hands), there really are no rules on how to handle a move during a pandemic.

And while we can breathe a sigh of relief knowing pandemics are far and few and between, the current state of the world has forced us all to think outside the box and be prepared for any scenario. So, before you start packing for your “pandemic” move, here are a few things to keep in mind for a safe and smooth experience…

Can you postpone your move?

If there is one word you associate with “pandemic”, it’s probably “essential”—essential businesses, essential store runs, essential workers, etc. When deciding what to do about your move, the first thing you should probably consider is: “Is this an essential move?”. Can your plans to move wait? If so, then it would absolutely be in your best interest to wait.

If you can’t be flexible about your move for any reason, consider moving using only your own vehicle or renting a truck. Note that some states and/or cities might cancel their moving services due to any mandatory laws. If you were relying on a moving service to complete your move, you might have to make room for plan B.

Look into storage space. 

There is a possibility that you might need to go through this extra step when moving during a pandemic. For example, if you don’t have to be at your new place any time soon, but you absolutely need to be out of your old home ASAP, you might need to settle for putting your things in storage for a while. Most storage companies should be continuing operations through the pandemic. Still, they will have significant rules in place for safe and sanitary storage. Make sure to call ahead and inquire about any unique protocols you need to follow.

Cancel your move. 

If you are considering canceling your move altogether but are nervous about it – don’t be. If you hired a moving company and need to cancel, it shouldn’t be a problem. Most moving contracts are non-binding, which means you shouldn’t have a financial penalty if you cancel during a specific time frame. As far as the deposit, the terms vary by company, so make sure to read the contract ahead of time to decide what will work in your best interest.

If you are moving solo or with a friend’s help, it should be easier to cancel the move. Not to mention a complete weight off your shoulders.

Are you sick?

This one is HUGE! You can find many ways to get around and keep your moving plans while in a pandemic, but if you are sick, you need to bring everything to a halt. If you so much as suspect you are sick, that should be a sign to automatically stop the move for the time being.

Minimal delayed time should be dependent on the recommended quarantine period. You’ll also need to inform anyone involved in your move about your illness (especially if you have been in physical contact with them). Transparency is key during this time to help ensure everyone’s safety.

Also, if you are sick or feeling sick, remember to be extra diligent about sanitizing all your belongings. Wear gloves and a mask when packing, even if you’re feeling better. Additionally, if you have movers or friends helping you move, you will need to practice social distancing. Try staying as far away from them as possible throughout the whole move.

Move without help.

We know that the idea of moving is enough to send you into a stress-induced coma, let alone the idea of doing it all by your lonesome self. Hear us out though: it is not uncommon for people to move completely alone.

For one, if you are moving during a pandemic, you probably won’t have much of an option as far as asking friends or family to come help out. There is also a chance you might be dealing with some unforeseen downtime. Unlike the chaotic time crunch you usually have to deal with during a regular move, you can use this extra time to slowly and safely handle all moving responsibilities.

Of course, some things will practically be impossible to handle by yourself (we’ve certainly never heard of anyone carrying out a grand piano to a moving truck alone). If you definitely need help loading things like furniture into a truck, make sure to plan ahead and follow your state’s safety protocols.

Keep all the essentials around.

No matter how you decide to move, remember to keep a bag of essentials with you at all times. This includes things like:

• Mask (face coverings)
• Disposable gloves
• Hand sanitizer
• Disinfectant wipes
• Disinfecting Spray

These things will help ensure everyone involved in your move is safe.

Final Thoughts. 

More than anything, moving during a pandemic requires additional mental preparation. It comes down to the added task of safety precautions that will protect everyone involved in the move. You will have to disinfect everything you’re packing, practice social distancing, and if you’re using a professional moving company, you will likely need to adhere to an additional set of rules.

Remember that you are not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, ask for help. Most moving companies have come up with brilliant ways to handle the pandemic safely, and they are more than happy to help.

If you have no choice but to ask friends and/or family to help, that is ok too, as long as you follow all safety guidelines.

Moving Across The Country

Are you planning on moving across the country? Whether you’re moving out of Florida or moving to Florida, it’s finally happening. Life is taking you to a completely different state, maybe even across the country? You’re changing your home, your job, and your friends. You’ve taken the leap, and now you just have to figure out exactly what that entails. Exactly how does one move across states?

Relax. We know it may sound overwhelming, even intimidating, to make such a big move, but you’re not alone. Thousands of people move across the country every year, and more often than not, their move is not nearly as scary as they thought it would be. With a bit of planning and a lot of communicating, your out-of-state move will be the perfect start to your new beginning.

Check out our list of everything you need to know before your big move.

Start with research. The thing about such a big move is that it requires even a bigger amount of research. Depending on how much time you have before the move, you’ll have to start your research ASAP. If you are hiring a professional moving company, you’ll have to start researching:

• The types of services they offer
• Prices
• Moving Insurances available
• Reviews
• Licensing

You’ll have to make a list of the most important things to you and then work your way through the companies you’re researching by process of elimination.

Budget. One of the first things you want to establish before anything is your budget. You want to ask yourself questions like:

• What’s a realistic amount I can personally invest in this move?
• Can I/should I go into debt during this move?
• Will my job be helping with my move?
• Are there ways I can save money? (e.g., some moving companies offer discounts if you pay cash)
• Can I start saving money for my move now?
• Is any part of my move tax-deductible?

Having a set budget in place will force you to be extra careful about your moving expenses. You really don’t want to start your new life stressed out about your financial situation.

DIY Move? DIY’ing your own move across the country can save you a ton of money. Of course, the trade-off is that you’ll have to do all the heavy lifting yourself. With that said, it’s not unheard of for people to rent their own trailers (or even trucks) and to drive across-country themselves. Some factors to include in your DIY move include:

• Insurance for the truck rental
• Gas
• Tolls
• Rental Fees
• The difficulty of loading and unloading
• Hours driving
• Road Conditions
• Weather conditions

Lighten the Load. When moving so far away, it’s typically recommended to purge as much as you can. Not only will purging give you fewer things to stress about, but it can significantly reduce the price of your moving bill. You can go as far as selling you more oversized furniture items, which can either help you pay for the move or buy you new furniture at your new place.

Shipping. It’s not unheard of for people relocating out of state to rent shipping containers and basically mail their things to their new home. There are too many factors to consider for this one, and you would definitely have some limitations. Still, it’s worth looking into if hiring a professional moving company is completely out of the question.

Be prepared for a lot of changing factors. There are many balls to juggle when you are moving out of state. Thus you must mentally prepare for at least a few “plot twists” during the move. For example, suppose you hire a moving company. In that case, it’s not uncommon for the final bill to be a bit higher than initially quoted. Many people severely underestimate their belongings’ weight. They assume a certain weight and base the price on their estimate. When the actual weight of all their belongings is determined during the move, they’re surprised to find out it’s a lot higher than they thought.

Get obsessive about contracts. No matter what options you end up going with, chances are you’ll have a few contracts to deal with. We know it might seem like a pain, but you must always thoroughly review your contracts in order for you to avoid any big surprises.

Every contract, from a moving company to a car rental, should be carefully reviewed. You might be surprised to find that you are strongly opposed to any terms of a contract, but if you wait until after you sign it, you’ll be deeply out of luck If anything goes wrong.

Don’t stress out too much. Many people each year end up in tears or having literal panic attacks over a move. This does not have to be you. The idea of moving and the work it takes to move can seem overwhelming. However, if you follow these tips and take them one step at a time, chances are that everything will run smoothly (as it usually does).

Final Words

We know that moving across the country can be challenging, and coordinating an out-of-state move may seem like a near-impossible task. But if you remember anything from this article, remember this: prioritize your needs. All you have to do for a successful move is make a list of your most essential needs.

We are fortunate enough to live in a day and age where we have almost every type of service available with the touch of our thumbs. Take advantage of that by deciding what your needs are, determining what you can work with, and then taking it from there.

We hope your move is as great as It can be. For tips on how to pack and things most people forget about on moving day, check out our other blogs.

How To Choose A Reliable Moving Company In Florida

Are you wondering how to choose a reliable moving company in Florida? One of the first things you want to do after discovering that you are moving is to start researching. You’ll have to research everything from best packing methods to things to do near your new home. But perhaps most importantly is you’ll have to research a reputable moving company. If you’ve weighed the pros and cons of hiring a professional moving service, you know that one of the biggest scams is the price tag.

Even the most affordable company will set you back a couple thousand. Considering you’ll be paying such a hefty amount and that your most valuable possessions are at play, don’t you want to make sure you hire a reputable moving company? Keep reading to find out precisely what you should look out for and expect from a reputable moving company.

Verify Credentials. This rule is especially important for an interstate move. A reputable mover will need to provide a “DOT number,” also known as a number provided by the Department of Transportation. That number is essentially a license that confirms a commercial vehicle is allowed to transfer cargo and passengers across the state.

In addition to the DOT number, you will also want to ensure your mover has a carrier number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. If a moving company you consider doesn’t have either of these, it’s probably best to part ways.

Read Reviews the Smart Way. Of course, one of the best ways to find out what type of company you will be dealing with is to head over to the review section of its website. With that said, you’ll want to do some critical thinking as you read any reviews. If there are too many five-star reviews, you may need to dig around to find out why.

Does it seem like they are a genuinely good company, or are they offering a significant price cut in exchange for a good review? Are the reviews based on a particular service they provide? Check out our reviews here.

On the other hand, you’ll also need to carefully judge bad reviews. Sure, you shouldn’t ignore too many bad reviews, but you shouldn’t write off a company just because of a few of them either. When reading bad reviews, consider the following:

• Is there a response to the negative review from the company? If so, does it seem like they offer a solution, and most importantly, is the response professional and curious?
• Are the bad reviews few and far between?
• Does the reviewer have a legitimate concern, or are they just venting about something that seems standard or unavoidable?

If you’re comfortable with how the company seems to do business based on the reviews, go ahead and proceed with your research.

They have a website and a physical location. This might seem like common sense, but we know how tempting it can get to hire someone off of a classified advertisement. When you’re looking for ways to save money, it can be easy to justify hiring people off Craigslist. Still, there are actually several reasons why that isn’t a good idea – read about that here. To ensure the most professional and safe move, make sure your moving company is a fully set up legal business. If they are a legal business, there should be a website.

20 percent deposit. If a company is trying to convince you to make a full deposit or even a large cash deposit upfront, consider this a red flag. As a general rule, moving companies shouldn’t ask for a deposit bigger than 20% of the estimated total. If they ask for any more than that, it might be a red flag the company is a scam.

The rule of three. You know how you’re not supposed to make big purchases before comparing prices in at least three different places? The same rule applies here. You should shop around at least three other moving companies before you settle on one. This will allow you to compare prices, services, and customer service.

Referrals. Sometimes, the best way to find the most reputable company is by old-school word of mouth. Talking about moving companies isn’t exactly party conversation, so you’ve probably never heard your friends or acquaintances talk about one. However, if you ask around, chances are that a good percentage of your circle can point out a good (or bad) experience with a moving company. Bonus: if you have social media, it is even easier to put the word out and ask for a recommendation from hundreds of people at a time.

They are happy to answer questions. If you are looking for a reputable moving company, there are several questions you need to ask before hiring them. For example:

• How do you handle claims?
• What happens if my things get lost or ruined?
• What if I need to cancel?
• Do you provide moving insurance?

These are not fun things to deal with, and while they are not likely to happen, it is still within the realm of possibility that they can. To ensure you are covered in every scenario, you need to have the conversation with the company’s representative. If you sense that they are dodging the questions, or worst…getting offended by them, that is a sign that the company is not operating at its best.

Final Thoughts

The initial task of hiring a professional moving company can be confusing. To ensure you are hiring the best company for you, you will need to give energy and attention to the researching a good fit. With that said, the end result is one thousand percent worth it. A reputable company will make your moving experience safer, mostly stress-free, and much quicker…amongst other things. So don’t despair, here at Safebound Moving & Storage, we are a reliable, highly-reviewed & rated moving company in Florida.

How To Pack & Move In A Weekend

Are you trying to pack & move in a weekend? Chances are you’ve probably moved at least once in your lifetime. During those times, you’ve probably had enough time to carefully follow a moving plan and even mentally prepare for moving day. But what if moving day is only a few days away? It might be hard to believe, but the truth is that thousands of people per year have to do just that.

For whatever reason, they end up having to work through weeks, if not months’ worth of work in one weekend. If you find yourself in a similar position, worry not. We are here to tell you; you are not alone. There are tons of ways to make a successful move in just one weekend, and we are sharing the best ones in this blog. Keep reading to find out how…

1. Slow down. If you’re thinking, “what?…slow is the exact opposite of what I need to do,” hear us out. Have you ever been in a rush to open your door? Frantically rummaging through your keys only to discover that none of them seem to work? That’s what panic does. The same concept applies here. Before you do anything, you have to take a deep breath and keep breathing throughout the whole weekend. You have to do one task at a time and approach each task entirely concentrated and energized.
2. Purge. The great thing about having to move so quickly is that it forces you to prioritize. To save time and space via packing, you’ll want to start purging everything and anything you can. You want to make a list (mentally or literally) of three things: things you want to donate, things you want to trash, and things you want to keep. Start off by trashing everything you can. Honestly, when in doubt…just trash it. Next, grab some trash bags and start putting the things you want to donate away. You can drop them off in a donation center on your way out or just mark them, so you know they’re not important during the move.
3. Start packing. This is the most critical and time-consuming part of the move. Because you’re pressed for time, you’ll have to get creative and find ways to be resourceful with what you have. For example, you can try:

• Keeping clothes in dresses and moving them as is
• Using towels to protect things like mirrors and dishes
• Consider hiring someone to move the big furniture on the first day while you pack up the more minor things.
• Having your family pack up their things as best they can.
• Fill up suitcases and purses with anything you can
• Leave clothes on hangers.

4. Ask for help. The term one for all and all for one never felt so right. If you have friends and family that can help, now is the time to enlist everyone’s If you have enough people, you can even assign each of them a room. Making it that much easier to finish quicker.
5. Trash bags are your new best friend Listen, no one likes to throw their pretty things in trash bags, but when you’re pressed for time like this, sometimes you have to cut your losses. Try quickly analyzing what needs to be absolutely folded up and packed away the “right way” and what can survive being thrown in a trash bag. Things like throw pillows, toys, and even shoes usually make the cut.
6. Get organized with supplies. This one is frustrating because it does require some time to get out and shop, but it will help things run so much quicker in the long run. Make a list of anything you absolutely need to pack. Things like:

• Bubble wrap
• Tape
• Sharpies
• Boxes
• Scissors
• Box knives
• Zip ties
• Dish Packing Kits

All these things will make your packing a lot quicker and easier. If you have time before the weekend, you can even order them from websites like Amazon or Walmart (which usually deliver within a couple of days). With that said, you can absolutely get by without most, if not all of them, so don’t sweat it if you can’t get your hands on them in time.

7.Pack your overnight bag NOW. This is an essential tip for all movers, but if you are moving in a weekend, you are definitely going to need it. Your overnight bag should consist of the following:

• Pajamas
• Toilet paper and other toiletries
• Phone chargers
• Lightbulbs
• A first aid kit
• Important documents
• Cash

Having this bag ready ahead of time serves as an insurance of sorts. No matter what happens, how late you finish, or how tired you are, you will have everything you need with you at the end of the day. We would go as far as saying you should pack this before anything else, and while you still know where everything is.

Take care of utilities. If you’re trying to pack and move in a weekend and find out at least a week in advance that you’re moving – use any spare time you have to call utility companies and cancel any services. Change your address, and if you’re hiring a moving company, now is the time to call. You really don’t want to leave these things for after the move. Not only will it make the move more stressful, but you’ll delay the process of getting settled into your new home.

If you follow all these tips, we have no doubt you will handle your weekend move like a total pro. As long as you go into it with a good attitude and try your best not to let it stress you out too much, the experience will be like ripping off a Band-Aid. After all, how many times in your life do you think you’ll have to move in just one weekend? You can also always enlist help from a professional mover if you’re crunched for time.

Corporate Moving As A Tax Write-Off

If you have a company that will be moving soon, you’re probably looking into what that means for your pocketbook. Aside from moving expenses and any employee moving deductions, how does moving your company affect your taxes?

While the Internal Revenue Service has several new restrictions on how moving expenses can be deducted for individuals (as of 2018, the 2017 tax cut and Jobs Act law has been suspended until 2025), the rules are a lot more flexible for company-related deductibles. Let’s take a look at how you can expect your corporate move to affect your taxes…

Smaller Companies

First off, if your company is a:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership

You will have a couple of guidelines. If you are a sole proprietorship or a partnership, you can deduct moving expenses. However, the requirements are that you move at least 50 miles and work at least 39 weeks in the 12-month period after you make the move for a total of 78 weeks in the first 24 months.

Corporations and LLC 

Corporations and limited liability companies can expect more flexibility when tax season arrives. Both types of companies can deduct all moving expenses from company taxes. This includes things like:

• Transportation
• Packing Materials
• Moving Labor
• Brokerage Commissions
• Travel

Ensure you keep tabs on any moving-related expenses, as most of them will likely qualify to be a deductible.

Moving Equipment and Furniture

If you are opening a branch location or additional location, any expenses involving relocating furniture, equipment, and supplies can be deducted. As of 2018, individuals cannot deduct moving expenses (unless they are military personal). Thus, if you are relocating employees, you can choose to pay their moving expenses and use that as a deduction for your companies move.

What you may not deduct

When deciding what qualifies as a moving expense, it’s essential to differentiate between a moving expense and a business expense. This is because you will not be able to deduct anything that isn’t directly related to the move.

For example, if you are in the midst of a move while still working, if you have expenses such as travel, meals, and lodging, the expenses would be considered business expenses, not moving expenses.

Meals, in particular, can no longer be accounted for as moving expenses unless you can prove (with documentation) that they were related to the business move. If, for example, you had to stay in the moving location to manage the move, you might be able to file the meal under lodging and meals.

Employees

Laws are constantly changing for what tax deductions will look like for relocating employees. It was recently decided that for 2018 to 2025 that “employers must include moving expense reimbursements in employees’ wages. The new tax law suspends the exclusion for qualified moving expense reimbursements.”

The law holds exceptions for members of the U.S Armed Forces that qualify and for employees who incurred moving expenses prior to January 01, 2018.

Expenses 

Not sure what exactly counts as an expense? Here are some of the common expenses business owners can expect to use as deductibles if you’re still not sure what exactly falls under the “moving expenses” umbrella:

1. Lease Expenses. Business relocations are similar to personal moving expenses as far as the way we have to pay for the initial move. When you chose the new space for your business, chances are your new landlord required a security deposit and first and last month’s rent. Those expenses are all deductible, so make sure you show your accountant all those receipts.
2. Moving Expenses. As discussed previously, anything to do with getting from point A to point B is considered a moving expense. Moving Professionals, boxes, tape, even paper. This is probably the easiest part to lose track of.

You might be tempted to “run to the store” and get some quick moving supplies without thinking about keeping the receipts. Still, you really should keep all documentation that pertains to the physical move-that includes receipts for everything.

3. Leasehold Improvements. Any alterations made to the new space to make it suitable for operations can be deducted. If you are in the food industry, this rule will apply the most. Some restaurant-type locations require thousands of dollars in improvements before they are up to code and ready for business.
4. Missed Opportunities. If your company simply cannot keep operating during the moving phase, talk to your accountant about any money lost during the physical moving phase. This can pertain to any missed opportunities or business setbacks as a result of the physical move. It’s worth the shot.
5. Damaged Goods/New Equipment. If you lose or damage any of your equipment at any point during the move, make sure to find its replacement sooner rather than later to add it to the move deduction.

The Right Team

Most people will never know the work that goes into owning a business, let alone the extra effort it takes to understand what it means for your taxes. It is vital to shop around for the right business accountant. While you should trust this person, do your own research on business expenses on moving laws and ask a lot of questions.

Additionally, you will want to make sure you have the right team in every aspect of the move. Hiring a reputable professional moving company that can provide excellent service and the proper documentation for your taxes is also important.

Final Words

It’s no secret that moving is a highly stressful task. Moving a whole company has its own set of challenges, those of which include dealing with taxes. If you remember to do all the research ahead of time, talk to your accountant (also ahead of time), and keep all documentation in a safe place, the rest of the work should be smooth sailing.

Best Cities In Florida For Young Professionals

We’re going to dive into the best cities in Florida for young professionals. One of the hardest decisions you’ll face in life is the decision of where to start your life as a young professional. You did the work by either finishing your education, investing in learning a trade, or taking the plunge into starting your own business. Now, the question is…what part of the world gets to benefit from your skills?

Well, call us biased, but we think Florida is the perfect place to start off your new professional journey. Not only is Florida a major metropolis (which, of course, equals lots of work), but it’s also home to several cities that are great for starting your career. Check out the best cities in Florida if you’re a young professional….

Miami Beach – Miami Beach has it all, one of the best cities for young professionals in Florida. With over one hundred thousand residents, the city is home to endless opportunities. Not only is there plenty of work to go around, but there are also tons of creative people you can team up with to create companies, develop apps and even start bands with. Additionally, the nightlife is fantastic. You can find things to do here and people to meet Sunday thru Monday. How many other places do you know of that also hold that to be true?

Tampa – Not only does Tampa make the safest cities in Florida list. It also makes the cut as one the best cities to live in Florida for young professionals. The city has great nightlife, quiet and safe neighborhoods and best of all…lots of beaches. The term “work hard, play harder” could not be better for young adults living here.

St. Petersburg – Sitting on the edge of Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg is one of the fastest-growing cities for young professionals in Florida. It has been steadily growing as a millennial favorite since 2010, with no signs of stopping anytime soon. And while the city is expanding so quickly with businesses and nightlife, the cost of living is still relatively low, so scoring a place here is still a great investment.

Palm Bay – Another quickly growing city makes this list. Palm Bay is a constant contender in “highest-salaries” in Florida lists. If you’re a young professional looking to earn top dollar, this is a good start. Be warned, though, the heavy traffic prevents it from landing on Florida’s safest cities lists. Your best bet is to score a job here and commute home to a safer city.

North Bay Village –  This is a hot spot for young professionals. Maybe it is its urban vibe, its mostly liberal political climate, or its beautiful views, but this is a great place to set some roots in if you’re looking for a place to live. The city is also great if you’re a young family. The public schools are some of the highest-rated, and there is no shortage of things to do.

Parkland – One of Parkland’s best things is that it is constantly rated as the place with the highest average salary in Florida. The city of Parkland is an exceptionally great choice if you have a family. The suburb-like city has great high-rated schools and a beautifully calm vibe.

Doral – The city of Doral is excellent for young professionals who want to ensure they live in a place with job security. The city (and its surrounding cities) have high-employment rates, which means you have a great chance of establishing a career. Additionally, Doral has a chilled out vibe that allows you to relax after a hard day’s work. Bonus: it’s also close enough to Miami, should you prefer to let out some steam during a night out.

Jacksonville Beach – Jacksonville beach is the perfect compromise between a career city and a beachside residence. The city is an excellent place for employment, nightlife, and cost of living. With that said, finding the right place to live here will take some research. While it’s mostly fabulous, some of its streets are known for being on the sketchier side.

Coral Gables – With a medium salary average of $52,000.00, it’s not a wonder Coral Gables makes the cut as one of the best places to live in Florida for young professionals. As if that’s not enough, the city is beautiful and full of life. You can do anything here, from taking long walks, appreciating nature to spending a day of shopping and dining.

Maitland – Rated one of Florida’s best places to find employment, Maitland is a great choice for young professionals. Maitland is also great for young families because of the highly-rated public schools, beautiful parks, and overall atmosphere. You’ll also love their incredible sense of community. The city is known for hosting an array of events throughout the year.

Glenvar Heights – If you want to keep things a bit more low-key and are looking for a particularly more suburb-ish-like town, this is your place. Glenvar Heights offers a relaxed vibe, beautiful homes, and equally great schools. While it is also descent on the employment rate, be prepared to do a bit of commuting to bigger cities when finding a job.

As you can see, there is no shortage of places to find employment in Florida. You have tons of choices for employers as well as tons of settings to choose from. Your biggest challenge will be deciding what you want in your new city. If you’re looking to move, get a free quote here. 

Do you want to be able to relax with your family in a nice calm suburb after a long week at work? Do you want to be able to let out some steam in the state’s best nightclubs? Or do you prefer to spend your weekends lounging by the beach with a good book and some good old fashion vitamin D? No matter what, Florida has something for you.

Moving to Miami, Florida – Places To Visit

Are you planning on moving to Miami, Florida? Talk about a dream come true. If you’re moving to Miami, you are joining one of the most stimulating cities in the country. From its vibrant colors to its heavenly weather, living in Florida is a whole experience. To help you make the best of it, we’ve put a great list together of just some of the cool places you get to explore while you’re there. Try them out for yourself, and let us know what you think.

Miami Beach

We have to start with the number one reason why anyone even considers moving to Miami, Florida. Miami is home to South Beach (located within Miami Beach). The beautiful beach is a mega tourist attraction, but locals will tell you that it doesn’t keep them away. While the beach is a great hangout for the younger generation, it is still fun for families and older couples alike.

Little Havana  

You can’t visit Miami without visiting Little Havana, and you can’t live in Miami without exploring Little Havana to its fullest extent. A cultural oath to its Cuban history, little Havana seems to be the epicenter of Miami’s colorful look. The area is riddled with places that show off the cities culture, including authentic Cuban cafes, Latin-inspired restaurants, markets, and shopping venues. Enjoy a fine cigar over a game of Dominos, and you’re officially a Miami local.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens 

It’s not every day you get to go from a tropical paradise to a European Villa in just one day. This European-inspired villa is a great getaway when you’re looking for a simple day out. Bonus: aside from the beautiful and relaxing views, for $5.00 you can rent out a walkman that contains a tour of the history of Miami.

Art Deco Historic District 

This cool art exhibit of sorts consists of over 800 Art Deco buildings within one square mile. Hard to believe? Definitely. This is something you have to see to believe. Consider taking one of the guided walking tours to learn more about the exhibit’s rich history.

Ocean Drive 

When people think of Miami, they almost inevitably (and perhaps even unknowingly) picture Ocean Drive. One of the most tourist-saturated places is still one of the most fun places to hang out in Miami. Filled with numerous restaurants, bars, and boutique-like shops- this place is Instagram heaven.

Miami Beach Boardwalk 

One of the best parts about living in Miami Beach is that all of the city’s most beautiful places are your playground. While this boardwalk is undoubtedly a tourist favorite, many joggers love using it as their Sunday morning run trail. The beautiful scenery is unlike any other, and on the rare chance you get an empty boardwalk, you’ll be in for an amazing experience.

Española Way 

over a century in the making, this pedestrian-only street is home to dozens of fine restaurants inspired by different cultures. From Mexican dishes to Italian, Spanish, and Mediterranean. This dining experience is especially great for Miami residents who have time to enjoy everything it has to offer.

Fisher Island

Fisher Island is a millionaire’s playground in Miami. Adorned with rows of mansions and only a fairy ride from Miami, this popular destination makes a great day of sightseeing, seeing how the 1% in Miami lives. And while you might not call Fisher Island home, there are still beautiful bars and dining available you can spend your evening in.

The Bass 

Plan your next family visit at The Bass. The beautiful museum features contemporary art pieces throughout the inside and outside of the building. The exhibits here are constantly being updated, and the museum has something for everyone- including kids.

Miami City Ballet

If you love the ballet or if it’s simply on your bucket list of things to attend, let us introduce you to the Miami city ballet. The studio is home to some of the country’s best ballet dancers, and some of the most beautiful tear-inducing shows you’ll ever see. Bonus: it is also a ballet school, so if that is something you want to do (or something you want for your kids), the Miami City Ballet is the perfect place to start.

Everglades National Park

From art exhibits to the wilderness, Miami has it all. Americas largest subtropical wilderness is home to many rare and endangered species such as the manatee, the American crocodile, and the Florida panther. The park can be accessed via hiking trails and/or one of the visitor favorites- a speed boat.

Bayside Marketplace 

This outdoor mall holds over a hundred stores, restaurants, specialty cafes, and numerous one-of-a-kind boutiques. There is live entertainment throughout the whole mall, and the view of the waterfront makes it a great place to relax and people-watch after a long day of shopping.

Bayfront Park 

This park isn’t so much of a destination as it is a place to pass through and admire. The park is adjacent to the Bayside Marketplace, and it features several monuments and sculptures. Among them are an electronically controlled pepper fountain, the challenger memorial, and the light tower. Choose this as your next destination for an evening run for an unforgettable experience.

Zoo Miami

A refuge to over 3,000 animals, including 40 endangered species, Zoo Miami is unique in its layout approach. The zoo allows different species of animals to interact, and they also try to keep the habitats as close to the real thing as possible. In addition to the animals, you can also enjoy dozens of different exotic trees and plants. Making the whole experience feel other-worldly. While this is undoubtedly a perfect family-friendly activity, it also makes a great date location and friend afternoon hangout.

Keep in mind that this is a very short list of some of the most incredible places Miami has to offer. We encourage you to venture out and explore the city as there are too many hidden gems to even mention.

Moving to Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Places To Visit

Thinking about moving to Fort Lauderdale, Florida? Well welcome to Ft. Lauderdale – the yachting capital of the world. Now that you live here, you’ll get to experience first-hand everything this beautiful city has to offer. From its beautiful beaches to its year-round warm weather and its amazing culture- living here is truly a dream come true.

Today we’re sharing with you some of our favorite places to visit here. Keep in mind that even the most touristy of places have a different feel to them once you become a local. When you experience things with patient eyes and a relaxed mind, you get to experience them in a way that no tourist ever could. Check out our list below…

Fort Lauderdale Beach 

Of course, we have to kick off the list with one of our favorite beaches ever! The Fort Lauderdale beach is a tourist favorite for a good reason. With over seven miles of sparkling water and an award-winning beachfront promenade, this beach might become your second home during the summer. Additionally, the beach is also a hot spot for different water adventures like scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and rollerblading.

Las Olas Boulevard 

Every major metropolitan city has its big party street, and Las Olas Boulevard is Fort Lauderdale’s. The-mile-long Blvd has all the classic Florida favorites like “Cycle Parties,” Food Tours, quaint coffee shops, and lots of shopping. And because it’s just such a beautiful place overall, it makes a great place to spend the day and people watch.

Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District 

Florida is known for its glorious rich culture. Some say the state is synonymous with bright colors because Florida is practically dripping in art. Everywhere you look in Florida, there is colorful inspiration, and Fort Lauderdale is no exception. The Riverwalk arts & entertainment district homes many unique galleries, world-class events, entertainment, and fine dining. If ever you feel low in inspiration, just take a stroll down the street and prepare to be inspired.

Bonnet House Museum and Gardens 

This nonprofit historic estate is one of Florida’s most beautiful gems. The architecture, art, and environment are magical, and even one afternoon there can help you feel like your soul has been recharged. There is no doubt that everyone who walks in here falls just a little in love with it.

HughTaylor Birch Estate Park This self-proclaimed “urban oasis” is exactly what you’ll need from time to time to unplug from the city. For only $6 per car, you can enjoy a day of relaxation under one of the hundreds of Palms and oaks. The park is also perfect for camping, swimming, and even canoeing.

Locals love that they have a place that is so close but feels so far- making it uber easy to disconnect whenever you need to.

Fort Lauderdale Beach Park On days when you just want to enjoy the beach views but aren’t really up for hanging out in the sun, Fort Lauderdale Beach Park offers a fantastic beachside trail. Take a stroll with your family or go for a run while you feel the Florida sun in your face the ocean breeze on your skin. A walk along this trail always brings tons of feelings of gratitude.

Sawgrass Mills Mall This high-end mall is a local go-to when it comes to shopping. The mall features over 300 stores, luxury store outlets, fine dining, a movie theater, a hotel, and even entertainment. There is truly no shortage of things you can do here. Shopping at this mall is a whole experience and a full-day event.

Young Art Museum While this museum can be appreciated by anyone at any age, you’ll love bringing little ones over. The museum is full of colors, sculptures, and activities that will make any child’s day. Tip: even if you do take the little ones, make sure to participate in the activities- they are all tons of fun for adults too.

Hooray For Hollywood The 2 ½ mile Downtown Hollywood Mural project is a long stretch of curated artwork by nationally and internationally recognized artists. You can choose to stroll down the street and explore any of the boutiques, coffee shops, and murals, or you can admire them through a “fun cycle” ride or even a trolly ride.

The Wharf Fort Lauderdale Neighboring Las Olas Boulevard, The Wharf is one of Fort Lauderdale’s hottest spots. The Hamptons-inspired spot is filled with great food, music, cocktails, and atmosphere. To learn more about the Whorf and keep up with the list of events, you can even download their podcast app, where they discuss events, food, and fun.

Flamingo Gardens A combination of botanical gardens and a wildlife sanctuary, the 60-acre flamingo gardens are a dream come true for animal lovers. The sanctuary is a great place to get a long walk in, and if you keep your eye out, you may even spot other wild animals like bobcats, black bears, otters, and even a Florida panther.

While there is a long list of things to do in Fort Lauderdale, it’s safe to say that basically any list you come across will have a massive selection of coastal-like activities. Locals here basically live in bathing suits, and chances are that you’ll become used to ocean smell and that you will even become used to the humidity of the city.

We recommend investing in some great hair products, cute but comfortable walking shoes, and a whole lot of sunscreen. Other than that, we have faith that you will eventually find all the hole-in-wall places natives love to keep under wraps. We hope you enjoyed our list and we can’t wait to hear about which ones you liked best.

Moving To Jupiter, Florida – Places To Visit

If you’re considering moving to Jupiter, Florida, you’re in for a sweet treat. The beautiful town, synonymous with its gorgeous red brick lighthouse, feels like something straight out of a Hallmark romance movie. Located in Palm Beach County’s northernmost part, Jupiter is also known for its lovely landscapes, beautiful beaches, and coastal vibes.

Of course, the most important part about moving to a new place is to set roots; and you can only do that by getting out and exploring. In this list, we have your hookup to all the must-see places in Jupiter to help you settle in as a local. Just pick your favorite, put on your shoes and go!

Bread by Johnny The townspeople don’t lie. If you’re going to be a local, you have to try Bread by Johnny at least once. This place isn’t just known for its delicious freshly made bread. The service is excellent, the menu is heavenly, and the atmosphere is unlike any other. But perhaps the best part about it is that you can genuinely tell the owner (Johnny) is genuinely passionate about this place once you’re there. You can’t live in Jupiter without making your way here at least once.

Jupiter Beach Jupiters beaches are known for their beautiful clear waters. If you’ll be around during the summer, this is a local favorite to spend a beautiful, fun-filled day. Additionally, Jupiter Beach is also an excellent place for kids and even for dogs. With its own built-in dog park, there is something for everyone here.

Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is what a centerpiece is for a birthday party. You cannot live here without visiting this gem at least once. The 108 ft lighthouse dates back to 1860, and it is filled with the town’s rich history. Bonus: Coming here helps you get a great workout. For one, the lighthouse consists of over a hundred steps to reach the fabulous top view. Also, the lighthouse is surrounded by acres upon acres of beautiful wilderness. Choose one of the hiking trails within, and you have a recipe for an amazing day.

Loggerhead Marinelife Center If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, look no further than this sweet sea turtle rehabilitation center. For about $10 you get a tour guide, detailed information on all its sea creatures, and a full day of fun. Don’t forget to ask to see the sea turtles upfront- that is an unforgettable experience.

The Nature Conservancy Blowing Rocks Preserve Perhaps one of the most awe-inspiring places in Jupiter or maybe even in the country, this preserve is excellent for spending a full day in. Between the hiking trails and beautiful sight-seeing, there is absolutely no way you will leave this place without feeling relaxed. Hint: if you are going solely to see the rocks in action, plan to go during a hide-tide day. If you join the local Facebook group, you will also get updates on the best times to visit.

Escape Rooms There are actually too many to just point one out, but if escape rooms are your thing, Jupiter has an array of escape rooms to choose from. From extraterrestrial themes to spooky ones and even family-friendly ones. This is a great way to bond with people, so don’t be afraid to ask any new friends out for a fun escape room night out.

Roger Dean Stadium There’s something in Jupiter for everyone, and if sports are your thing, you’ll love hanging out at the Roger Dean Stadium. True sports fans tend to appreciate the history in this stadium where it’s all about the old ball game!

Harbourside Place If shopping and dining are your types of thing, you’ll absolutely love this addition to Jupiter. The atmosphere here is phenomenal, especially on live music nights. This place is great for everything: date night, family celebrations, a single night out. Just make sure you bring comfy shoes because there will be a lot of walking (or dancing ) involved.

Loxahatchee River Battlefield Park This place is an experience! Not only does it have a great history dating back to the early 1800s, but it also has a number of events throughout the year that will give you lots of things to look forward to while you’re in Jupiter. Additionally, the park has several beautiful places to enjoy nature and have a picnic. Pictures of this place don’t do it justice- if you’re in Jupiter, this is a must-see!.

Jupiter Yacht Club Listen, if the boujie scene is more of your scene, we’re not mad at you. In fact- we think you’ll love the Jupiter yacht club. The luxurious club consists of a fantastic dive bar and beautiful views. Made for the yacht enthusiast, this is the go-to for your yacht purchases or rentals. But seriously, this is one of the most beautiful places in Jupiter, so do check it out.

Bertil Roos Racing School Not a lot of places have racing schools, so we thought it appropriate to drop this hidden gem here. If you like a little adrenaline in your life, this racing school is fantastic- and a lot of fun. Use it to learn everything from handling dangerous situations in your vehicle to legitimately learning how to race professionally.

Florida Shark Diving Speaking of adrenaline, if you researched Jupiter at all before your big move, chances are you’ve come across this place. The Florida Shark Diving experience has been featured in everything from the NBC news to Animal Planet, and it has an almost 100% rating across review boards. If there is one thing, you need to add to your Jupiter bucket list-it’s this. Trust us.

We can’t wait for you to visit all these places. Where do you think you’ll go first?